Remove Fast! 7 Violent Gangs Taking Over New Jersey: What You Need to Know

MJP –

New Jersey, known for its bustling cities, iconic boardwalks, and diverse culture, is also facing a serious problem with gang violence. Over the years, criminal organizations have increasingly taken root across the state, contributing to a surge in violent crime in some areas.

These gangs have been linked to drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, robberies, and much more, putting communities at risk. If you live in or around New Jersey, it’s important to stay informed about the most dangerous groups operating in the state today.

Here are seven violent gangs that are taking over New Jersey and what you need to know about them.

1. The Bloods

One of the most notorious gangs in America, the Bloods have a significant presence in New Jersey, especially in cities like Newark, Camden, and Trenton. This street gang has been involved in a variety of illegal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violent confrontations with rival gangs. The Bloods have a history of gang-related violence, and their influence in New Jersey has been growing in recent years. They use intimidation tactics to assert control over neighborhoods and engage in turf wars with other gangs.

2. The Crips

Just as well-known as the Bloods, the Crips are another dangerous street gang with a strong foothold in New Jersey. Although the Crips and Bloods are notorious rivals, their violent clashes are not uncommon in the state. They are involved in the same illegal activities—drugs, weapons trafficking, and violent crimes—and often engage in gang wars over territory. Many of their operations are focused on urban areas like Camden and parts of Paterson, where they battle rival gangs for control of drug markets and other criminal enterprises.

3. MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha)

The Salvadoran-based MS-13 is a transnational gang with a heavy presence in New Jersey, particularly in towns with large immigrant populations. Known for their brutal violence and ruthlessness, MS-13 has been linked to numerous murders, assaults, and drug-related crimes in the state. Their members are often involved in human trafficking, extortion, and money laundering. The gang is infamous for its use of machetes and other weapons in violent attacks, and it has been responsible for a significant number of murders in New Jersey’s cities.

4. The Latin Kings

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The Latin Kings are one of the largest and most powerful Hispanic street gangs in the U.S., and they have a prominent presence in New Jersey. This gang is deeply rooted in the state, with members involved in drug distribution, extortion, and violent acts. The Latin Kings often target Hispanic communities, using intimidation and violence to establish control over various neighborhoods and criminal enterprises. They also have a reputation for engaging in turf wars with other gangs, especially in areas like Newark and Paterson.

5. The 18th Street Gang

The 18th Street Gang is a multinational criminal organization that operates in various states, including New Jersey. Known for its association with drug trafficking and violent crimes, the 18th Street Gang is heavily involved in street-level crime in cities like Camden and Trenton. This gang is particularly dangerous due to its large network of members and its willingness to engage in violent confrontations with law enforcement and rival gangs alike. They are often seen as a significant threat in the region because of their brutal tactics and growing influence.

6. The Violent East Coast Bloods (V.E.C.B.)

The Violent East Coast Bloods are an offshoot of the larger Bloods gang, and they have been making a name for themselves in New Jersey over the past few years. While similar to the original Bloods, the V.E.C.B. are known for their heightened aggression and territorial dominance. This gang is heavily involved in illegal drug trade operations, weapons trafficking, and violent crimes. They have a significant presence in several cities, including Newark, and have been responsible for a number of shootings and homicides in the state.

7. The Black Guerrilla Family (BGF)

The Black Guerrilla Family, originally based in California, has extended its influence to various parts of the U.S., including New Jersey. Known for their militaristic structure and involvement in organized crime, the BGF is notorious for its violent tactics. While their operations are more focused on the prison system, their influence extends to street-level crime in New Jersey. The BGF is involved in drug trafficking, weapons sales, and orchestrating violent assaults against rival gangs and law enforcement officers. Their ability to operate both within and outside of prison walls makes them particularly dangerous.

What You Need to Know

Gangs have a profound impact on the communities they infiltrate, and their presence in New Jersey poses a serious threat to public safety. While these organizations are often seen as operating primarily in urban areas, their reach can extend to suburban communities as well. Gang-related violence has been on the rise in many parts of the state, leading to increased police efforts to dismantle these criminal networks.

How to Stay Safe:

1. Stay Informed: Being aware of the gangs operating in your area is key to protecting yourself and your community.
2. Avoid Conflict Zones: If you live in or near areas with a known gang presence, be cautious and avoid confrontation.
3. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect gang-related activity in your neighborhood, report it to local authorities. Keeping quiet only helps the gangs grow stronger.
4. Support Community Programs: Many local initiatives work to prevent gang recruitment and violence. Supporting these programs can help combat gang activity.

The rise of these violent gangs in New Jersey is a serious issue, but it’s not something the community has to face alone. Through awareness, vigilance, and cooperation with law enforcement, residents can play a role in reducing the influence of gangs in their neighborhoods. By understanding the groups operating in the state and knowing the signs of gang activity, New Jersey residents can take steps to protect themselves and help keep their communities safe.